The CPG Community Cardiology Team have had a scientific paper accepted for presentation at the European Society of Cardiology, a prestigious international meeting of cardiologists from around the world.
The paper explores the experience of patients referred with potential heart failure from primary care and specifically how many of those have evidence of reduced pumping function of the heart. The study looked to see if there are differences in patient characteristics between those that are referred within the current *NICE guidelines to be seen within 2 weeks (who have very high **biomarkers) and those that are referred with lower levels of the biomarkers (***BNP) with a guideline to be seen within 6 weeks.
Their findings are that:
- 27% of those referred have reduced pumping function of the heart (left ventricular systolic function).
- Those with the highest levels of BNP are more often in an irregular heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation).
- That regardless of the pumping function of the heart BNP levels are higher in older patients.
- Twice as many men than women had heart failure due to pumping failure of the left ventricle of the heart.
We asked members of the Community Cardiology Team to comment on the paper, the way it may impact the scientific community and understanding of cardiology and how they feel about presenting their findings.
Dr Rob Bain, Consultant Cardiologist, said:
“The European Society of Cardiology annual conference is one of the largest international clinical and scientific meetings each year.
“To have our work accepted for a presentation is recognition that our work is of interest to an international audience of Cardiologists and demonstrates that even as a small Community Cardiology Service (rather than a large hospital or teaching centre), we can make a valuable contribution, not only to our patients through our clinical care, but also to the wider knowledge informing future clinical care.”
Dr Mark Walters, Consultant Cardiologist, said:
“Acceptance of this paper at the European Society of Cardiology validates that we are practising evidence-based medicine.”
Keeley Wickham, Heart Failure Nurse Specialist, said:
“An outstanding achievement from a small, dedicated team, who by working together and using data collated for this paper, ensures best practice outcomes for the NE Lincs community. I am looking forward to seeing what’s next and what we can achieve.”
Rachel Jones, Advanced Cardiac Physiologist, said:
“Acceptance of our poster at such a prestigious international event is a fantastic accolade. It demonstrates that although we may be a relatively small Cardiology service, the high standard and quality of our work is undeniable.”
The presentation will be in London at the beginning of September. Stay tuned for more updates on this story very soon!
*NICE Guidelines:
NICE guidelines are evidence-based recommendations for health and care in England and Wales.
(nice.org.uk, 2024)
**Biomarker:
A biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease. A biomarker may be used to see how well the body responds to a treatment for a disease or condition. Also called molecular marker and signature molecule.
(cancer.gov, 2024)
***BNP:
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) belongs to a family of protein hormones called natriuretic peptides. These natriuretic peptides have an important role in regulating the circulation. They act on blood vessels, causing them to dilate, or widen. They also work on the kidneys, causing them to excrete more salt and water.
(Harvard Health, 2023)
Sources:
NICE Guidelines: https://www.nice.org.uk/about/what-we-do/our-programmes/nice-guidance/nice-guidelines
Definition of Biomarker: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/biomarker
